Average power
Definition
Average power is the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred over a period of time. It is mathematically defined as the total work done divided by the time interval during which the work was done.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Average power is calculated using the formula $P_{avg} = \frac{W}{\Delta t}$, where $W$ is work and $\Delta t$ is the time interval.
- The SI unit of average power is the watt (W), equivalent to one joule per second ($1\, W = 1\, J/s$).
- Average power can also be expressed in terms of force and velocity: $P_{avg} = F \cdot v$, where $F$ is force and $v$ is velocity.
- In oscillatory systems, average power can be related to amplitude and angular frequency.
- Understanding average power helps in analyzing energy consumption in mechanical systems, electrical circuits, and real-world applications like engines and machinery.
Review Questions
- How do you calculate average power if you know the total work done and the time interval?
- What are the units of average power?
- Explain how average power can be expressed in terms of force and velocity.
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Related terms
Work: Work refers to the process of energy transfer when a force acts upon an object causing displacement. Mathematically, it’s calculated as $W = F \cdot d \cdot \cos(\theta)$.
Kinetic Energy: Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion. It’s given by $KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$, where $m$ is mass and $v$ is velocity.
Instantaneous Power: Instantaneous power is the rate at which work is done or energy transferred at a particular moment in time. It’s calculated as $P(t) = \frac{dW}{dt}$.
